2025/2026 NPFL Matchday 4 Preview: Rivers United Host Winless Shooting Stars in Port Harcourt

Posted : 13 September 2025

The Port Harcourt fans will on Sunday look forward to another thrilling fixture at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, where 8th-placed Rivers United (five points) welcome 15th-placed Shooting Stars (two points) for the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 4 encounter.

The Pride of Rivers remain unbeaten this season, with two draws and one win, and will be aiming to secure another three points at home.

Finidi George’s men began with a 1-1 draw against Remo Stars, followed by a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Kwara United, before holding El Kanemi Warriors to a goalless draw in Maiduguri.

Shooting Stars, on the other hand, have struggled to find form. After an opening-day defeat to Bayelsa United, they settled for back-to-back 1-1 draws against Bendel Insurance and Ikorodu City, leaving them without a win this season.

In a bid to attract fans for this key fixture, Rivers United have rolled out incentives. The Port Harcourt faithful will enjoy free entry to the stadium, while fans will also receive free replica jerseys.

The club announced:

"We’re excited to announce that fans will receive free Rivers United replica jerseys at our upcoming match against Shooting Stars SC on Sunday, September 14, at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium. Join us for an electrifying match and show your support for Rivers United! Don’t miss this opportunity to wear your team colours with pride. See you at the stadium!"

Head-to-head, Rivers United hold the edge. In their eight NPFL meetings, the Garden City side have four wins, Shooting Stars have three, and one ended in a draw.

Recent Meetings:

Mar 2025: Shooting Stars 0-0 Rivers United
Oct 2024: Rivers United 2-0 Shooting Stars
Jun 2024: Rivers United 1-0 Shooting Stars
Feb 2024: Shooting Stars 1-0 Rivers United
Jul 2022: Shooting Stars 3-2 Rivers United

Rivers United have scored five goals in their last five meetings with Shooting Stars and kept three consecutive clean sheets in their most recent encounters. Shooting Stars, meanwhile, have scored eight goals in their last five games against Rivers but conceded three in their last three clashes.

For Rivers, Zechariah Timothy is still searching for his first league goal, while Ubong Friday—already on the scoresheet this season—remains a key attacking threat. Goalkeeper Osagie Onisodumeya will also be vital, with the team conceding just once so far.

The Oluyole Warriors will rely on their experienced midfielders and forwards to break down Rivers’ solid defence, though pressure continues to mount on them to start scoring and winning.

Rivers United coach Finidi George has expressed confidence in his side’s ability to deliver all three points at home. With their unbeaten run intact, the Pride of Rivers will be determined not to slip against a struggling Shooting Stars side.

History favours Rivers, who have four wins from their last eight encounters, compared to Shooting Stars’ three.

2025/2026 NPFL Matchday 4 Preview: Rivers United Host Winless Shooting Stars in Port Harcourt

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics